![]() However, the high level of unpredictability in evolutionary processes, as suggested by chaos theory, also raises questions about the limits of prediction and generalization in evolutionary biology. These examples highlight the potential for novelty and complexity to emerge from convergent evolution. The authors provide several examples of convergent evolution, including the parallel evolution of wing patterns in butterflies, the convergence of echolocation in bats and whales, and the evolution of succulence and C4 photosynthesis in multiple lineages of plants. When applied to convergent evolution, this means that even small differences in the genetic makeup and developmental trajectories of different organisms can result in vastly different outcomes, despite similar environmental pressures. The theory suggests that small changes in initial conditions can lead to vastly different outcomes in complex systems. ![]() I would like to add to this discussion by highlighting the potential role of chaos theory in understanding the unpredictability of convergent evolution.Ĭhaos theory is a branch of mathematics that studies the behavior of complex systems, and it has been applied to a variety of fields, including biology (2). The authors provide a comprehensive review of convergent evolution and present evidence for the high level of novelty that can emerge from this process. entitled "High level of novelty under the hood of convergent evolution" (1). I am writing to draw attention to the recent article by Van Belleghem et al. ![]()
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